ATHENS, Ga. --- Junior Todd Gurley has been one of 53 running backs nationwide included on the Doak Walker Award Watch List, which is given to the country’s premier player at this position.

Gurley, native of Tarboro, N.C., is one of 10 running backs from the Southeastern Conference on the list.

The Doak Walker semifinalists will be announced on November 18 and the award’s National Selection Committee will cast votes to determine the finalists who will be announced on November 24. The recipient of the 2014 Doak Walker Award will be announced live on The Home Depot College Football Awards on December 11 on ESPN.

Former Bulldog Garrison Hearst won the 1992 Doak Walker Award. More recently, current Miami Dolphin and former Georgia All-American Knowshon Moreno was a finalist for the award in 2008.

Gurley, a native of Tarboro, N.C., was an All-SEC Second Team selection last year despite playing in only 10 games because of injuries. Gurley averaged 98.9 yards a game in 2013 after rushing for 989 yards and 10 touchdowns. The versatile back was also third on the team with 37 catches for 441 yards receiving and a team-leading six touchdowns. As a true freshman in 2012, Gurley piled up 1,385 yards rushing and 17 touchdowns and earned Freshman All-America honors.

The Bulldogs start the season at home in Sanford Stadium versus Clemson on August 30. ESPN will televise the 5:30 p.m. matchup.